Burns Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wilson Pond Dam Lake Louise
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Burns Pond Dam, located in Effingham, Georgia, was completed in 1981 with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
The dam, designed by EASON & BURNS & SCS, is classified as an earth dam with a height of 11 feet and a length of 600 feet. It sits on Devils Branch and has a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 130 acre-feet and a surface area of 40 acres. Although the dam is not state-regulated, it does undergo regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 1988.
Despite being labeled as having low hazard potential and not currently rated for condition assessment, Burns Pond Dam poses a moderate risk, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with uncontrolled outlet gates, and it has no associated structures or locks. While there have been no modifications in recent years, the dam is subject to an inspection frequency of 5 years. The risk management measures and emergency action plan status for the dam are currently unlisted, suggesting a potential area for improvement in terms of preparedness and response protocols. Overall, Burns Pond Dam provides essential irrigation support, but there may be opportunities for enhancing its safety and emergency readiness protocols.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
DEVILS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
12000 |
Nid Storage |
280 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Savannah River Near Clyo
|
6820cfs |
Ebenezer Creek At Springfield
|
12cfs |
Abercorn Cr (Water Intake) Nr Savannah
|
1620cfs |
Ogeechee River Near Eden
|
545cfs |
Savannah River Near Port Wentworth
|
19300cfs |
Black Creek Near Blitchton
|
9cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Burns Pond Dam